Information
Acquiring comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of the subject area is the initial step in academic research. This is usually accomplished by doing a wide-ranging literature review, which involves evaluating previous research findings critically to choose the best methodology for studying the subject. It is essential for researchers to present a detailed literature review at various stages, such as grant applications or during ethics committee submissions, to underscore the significance of the research topic (Randles & Finnegan, 2023). Therefore, a careful and comprehensive systematic review is essential for advancing scientific knowledge and development.
Systematic reviews provide a deep understanding of the field of study and its existing research landscape. They offer substantial benefits across all scientific disciplines by enhancing evidence-based decision-making processes (Bellibaş & Gümüş, 2018). They also make it possible for researchers to keep up with advancements in their domains, which helps them spot research gaps and the need for conclusions that are supported by evidence. Consequently, systematic reviews facilitate the evolution of new scientific disciplines, foster changes in existing ones, and contributes to researchers becoming more productive.
Systematic reviews are particularly important for reliably summarizing research findings and thus strengthening the link between comprehensive research results and best practices. For example, in the health sciences, where new findings proliferate rapidly, practitioners in the field can direct their own studies thanks to the information obtained from these studies (Cook et al., 1997; Liberati et al., 2009). Similarly, a psychologist can follow the latest developments and thus carry out his therapies in the light of scientific processes. Systematic reviews therefore serve as a crucial reference for professionals in various fields, including engineering, psychology, and education.
Systematic reviews use a rigorous and reproducible methodology to synthesize study results addressing specific research questions (Page et al., 2016). They are highly effective in increasing the reliability, integrity, and efficiency of reviews by providing a differentiated assessment of benefits and harms (Loke et al., 2007). Additionally, these reviews are functional in formulating recommendations for policy makers and practitioners, filling gaps in the evidence base with practical policy implications that benefit a wide audience (Bellibaş & Gümüş, 2018).
To sum up, systematic reviews are very important for academic research. They make it possible for researchers to successfully incorporate new results and understand what already exists. These assessments not only make important contributions to the body of scientific knowledge, but they also offer practitioners and policymakers important suggestions. However, it is imperative that these procedures be carried out paying close regard to validity and reliability. In the end, systematic reviews and the literature have a major impact on the development of best practices and the advancement of science.
